There are over 10 clubs across the geographic region of the Middle East
promoting Gaelic Games at all levels â Senior, Intermediate, Junior, Juveniles,
Mens and Ladies. Gaelic football and hurling are the main codes, with Camogie,
Rounders and Handball beginning to be a focus in some clubs. As well as these
games, International Rules is played as part of a selection of Middle East GAA
clubs along with some ScÃ³r activities that promote Irish music, dance and
culture in a non sporting environment. The GAA is a sporting and cultural
organization that originates in Ireland but now has a presence in many
countries across the globe. For more information on the GAA go to www.gaa.ie

To anyone new to
Gaelic Football, it can be described as being similar to Australian Rules
Football, with some major differences in scoring and the shape of the ball! We
would like to welcome all potential players from every country to try the
national games of Ireland, and hopefully you enjoy them as much as we do!! Playing
rules can be found here http://www.gaa.ie/about-the-gaa/rules-and-regulations/

The Middle East
League was set up in 2010 when there was a need for a structured approach to
develop Gaelic Football. Since the MEL was established two more clubs were
formed, to make the total number of GAA clubs to 11. Oryx na hÃireann Qatar captured the league for the first three years in a row,
with Dubai Celts securing the 2013-14 title. In the last 2 seasons, the senior
grade has seen every affiliated club make a final, proof positive that the
overall standard has grown immensely. The League has now taken on a formal
Intermediate grade in 2013-14, which was incredibly competitive with Qatar B
taking the honours, as well as a Junior grade, which serves as an opportunity
for new players to try Gaelic Games as well as the more social members in the
Region.

Middle East Clubs at the Asian Games

Teams from the
Middle East have been travelling to the Asian Games since 2004. In that time,
Dubai Celts have won the Derek Brady Cup twice, as well as the B competition
twice. Oryx na hÃireann Qatar won the
Asian Games in 2013, and the Arabian Celts tasted success in Bangkok and in
2013, as have Kuwait Harps. The number of teams that have travelled to support
the Asian Games over the years has been very impressive and 2013 Games where
after two final defeats, Qatar GAA overcame Dubai Celts, and has shown the
strength of GAA in the region. Dubai Celts ladies won the Ladies A trophy three
times in a row in 2005, 06 and 07. Since then, it is fair to say that the
Regionâs best lady footballers have not taken part at the Asian Games due to
work commitments.

Oryx na hÃireann Qatar have flown the flag for the Middle East in Dublin in
2012 when they took part in the St. Judes All Ireland Junior 7âs bringing home
the first International honours to the Region. This was a very proud day for
Middle East GAA andwas a great
success that all clubs locally recognised, and strive to equal in future.